Nigel Clough’s side had dictated the tempo of the game in the first period and had enjoyed the better of a handful of chances, with Lloyd Dyer denied by a goal-line block from Lichaj and Jake Buxton prodding a golden opportunity around the post.

But Forest grew in confidence after the break when they found more urgency – and Warburton hopes that belief levels will continue to flourish as they head into two tough away games.

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“It all comes down to belief. Belief underpins everything. Believe as a player how good you are and how good your colleagues are. Do we believe in what we are doing; in our philosophy?” said Warburton.

“Belief is everything. When you have a result and get your rewards, that belief is strengthened.

Barrie McKay sets off in celebration for Forest (Image: John Sumpter)

“Momentum often comes from getting a win, then players start to think ‘I fancy this today’.

“As basic as it sounds, that is how this sport works. It is a mindset. That side of things is such a huge part of things.

“Now what we have to do is work hard this week for the Hull and Reading games.”

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Warburton admitted Forest had been well below par in the first half – but felt Burton deserved credit for the part they played in that.

“It was difficult, because we started well, but we had to maintain that. Teams will come here and slow the game down, because they want to win points,” he said.

“Nigel came here looking to get points and they have done that successfully on the road this season.

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“When there was no momentum, it just felt flat. We were laboured and we were not shifting the ball. So we had to change it.

“I am delighted for the team, because Burton are tough to beat. They are well organised, they are diligent, they are hardworking and well coached.

“We had a tough job to do and I am delighted with the three points.”

A wild Eric Lichaj sets off in celebration after his goal (Image: John Sumpter @ JMS Photography)

Warburton said his message to his players at half-time had been a simple one.

“The message at half-time was just to play our game, because the crowd were getting restless,” said Warburton.

“Burton have collected three 0-0 draws in recent weeks, away at very good venues – so we knew the side we would face.

“All we needed to do was change the tempo – and we saw that in the second half, when we were much better. The second half performance was much, much better.

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“We started the game really well, in the first five or 10 minutes, when we were really positive. But Burton came here and were well organised, they got men behind the ball and looked to counter with pace and power.

“Their aim was to slow everything down. Everything was slow and laborious. We had to set our own tempo – and in the first half we did not do that. We did not move the ball quick enough.

“It sounds very basic – but it is true. Move the ball quickly. Play one and two touch football. Play the ball forward, split units and be positive in your decision making and you will get your rewards.”